Solinco Prototype Playtest - String "B"

This thread is for those of you who receive the Solinco prototype marked "B".

Please post a full review by Friday July 27th.

If for some reason you do not post or if your review is clearly lacking effort and thought, you will be excluded from future string/racquet/shoe playtests.

**Hybrids are okay **

You must include the following in your review.

Your regular string set up
Confirm the prototype you received - A or B
Whether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest
If hybrid, list the other string used and whether it was in mains or crosses
Tension used for playtest
Racquet brand and model used for test
Power level of test string or hybrid
Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?)
Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?)
Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?)
Spin
Compare to the string you use most often
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?)
General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes)

Please expand on your answers where appropriate, e.g., don't merely say that a string has good control. Tell us why.

Your regular string set up
Various Poly 1.20mm/ with a solid core sny gut crossthe prototype you received - B
hybrid for the playtest Prince Sg df 1.25 mm crosses
,
Tension used for playtest: 40 Mains/ 44 crossesRacquet brand and model used for test: Prince Speedport Gold 110
Power level of test string or hybrid: Average for a copoly
Feel FRIM
Tension maintenance 12 HOURS over 2 weeks of time, still plays fine I cut poly strings out after 2 weeks for arm safety
Control : Above average control
Spin: Tight, in a tournament match on hard and a Sr league on red clay, my opponents reported that the ball had more rpms than they thought it would,leading to more mishits on their part
Compare to the string you use most oftenTension recommendations I would use my regular tension
General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes) Shaped string, average coil memory for a copoly. knots were not a problem. I really enjoyed this string thanks for the opportunity.I would like to see this in a 1.20mm or less as I don't break polys.

No Pics... too busy. Looks like a gray muti-sided poly 17G. Will be stringing later today and begin playtesting tonight. I am very excited that I have a string to test and it is right on the middle of outdoor season here. Most times I am testing either late or early season..or indoors. I can really put this string thur the test.. ... and I have a frame that needed strings..cool

^^ sounds like prototype A and B strings may be made of the same material and have different shapes/structures. i thought prototype A also felt much softer than TB and was quite good in the power dept as well.

Playtest: Day 1
Okay guys I just couldn't wait to try these strings so after about 4 hours after stringing it I got on court for a test hit. I played about 3 hours, varying from baseline play, volleys, smashes, serves, and returns.

Your regular string set up: Gosen OG Sheep in the mains and Pro Supex Big Ace in the crosses, 52/48 lbs.[/B]Confirm the prototype you received - BWhether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest: HybridIf hybrid, list the other string used and whether it was in mains or crosses: Gosen OG Sheep in the crosses, prototype in the mainsTension used for playtest: Used it in two racquets, one is strung at 50/46 and the other is 55/53Racquet brand and model used for test: Both racquets were Pro Kennex Silver Ace 90 racquetsPower level of test string or hybrid: Racquet 1(50/46 lbs) had a lot more pop than my previous string job with Solinco Tour Bite, Racquet 2(55/53lbs) had a little less pop than usual. One thing to note is the higher strung racquet didn't get as much pop on the serve.Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?) Racquet 1: Stiff/crisp, it felt like Solinco Tour Bite but it was a lot more arm friendly. I probably didn't need to hybrid it with a syn gut in the crosses, felt very crisp which I like a lot. Racquet 2: Very stiff/crisp like the other racquet, I'm glad that I used syn gut in the crosses at 54lbs because it sort of hurt my wrist at first but after about 30 minutes it started feeling a lot better.Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?) Racquet 1 was strung at about 48lbs, the racquettune app read about 53.2lbs and after the 3 hours it dropped to 52.5lbs, it was still very playable after 3 hours. Racquet 2 was strung at about 54lbs, the racquettune app read about 57.3lbs and after 3 hours it dropped to 54.8lbs, it was still playable and it felt a lot better than when I first started hitting with it.Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?) Control was there in both racquet 1 and 2, I tried inside out forehands, cross court buggywhips, and volleys. They were all going in the direction I wanted it to. Volleys felt very crisp and the serve was good, but lacked power on the first serve. However on the second serve it helped me get a little more kick on the kick serve and good angle on the slice out wide.Spin: Hahahahaha, this string doesn't have much competition IMO in the spin area. I was ripping the felt off the ball like I would with the Solinco Tour Bite but I could also flatten out some shots more than I would with Tour Bite.Compare to the string you use most often: My usual Gosen mains and Pro supex cross setup is geared more towards touch and power, the prototype and the gosen crosses helped me in the spin aspect of my game. I can't really compare these two, but I can with the Solinco Tour Bite and gosen crosses hybrid. Overall in the first 3 hours of hitting I really liked the prototype more than the Solinco Tour Bite in all areas.Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?) If you play it in a fullbed go no higher than 57lbs(if you use a racquet larger than a 98"), since I used a 90" racquet for the play test I would recommend around 52lbs, it gave me an added boost in spin and I could still flatten out the ball.General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes) There weren't many dislikes for the string because it helped me get the control/spin I need to control my hard hitting baseline game. The only dislike I have is that it is still quite stiff, a little bit easier on the arm than Solinco Tour Bite.

Note that this is only 3 hours of hitting, I will continually play test this for another 4 days and post my readings of the tension from using the racquettune app.

After about 5 days of testing I broke the lower tensioned hybrid on the top of the mains. The tension dropped about 10lbs since the initial readings.

My final impressions are that the string was significantly better in terms of comfortability than Tour Bite, however it lost a lot of tension in 5 days of hitting. Still a good string though.

I strung mine up today and hope to hit with it tomorrow. Its was pretty easy to string as it is not quite as stiff as my regular string. I was really suprised how much this string stretched. I tried to pull it very slow to compensate for the stretching.

I just strung it up. It wasn't difficult to string up compared to tour bite so thats a plus. I will be comparing each of them on my MG rad MP. Will try to hit with them ASAP. It looks like its going to give amazing spin like TB but we'll see.

Feel : Slightly Crispy. Earlier i played with a full bed of Multi and it was very soft. When compared to it this is not as soft.

Tension maintenance : So far i didn't notice any tension loss. It was strung just two days back. May be i need to update this review after a week.

Control : Excellant control. The racquet i am using is control oriented racquet and this String didn't mess any thing. I was able to change the direction of the ball on my forehand and backhand with out any issues.

Spin : I am a flat hitter with little bit of spin. I didn't notice any excessive spin. How ever when i tried to generate some spin i can definitely notice the spin. But again that's not how hit most of my strokes.

Comparison to my full bed multi : This has plenty of power. With full bed multi i needed to generate my own power. It's not like i am hitting lost of balls long.

General comments : Overall i am happy with this String. I don't think i like the full bed of this. But as a hybrid setup so far i didn't find any drawbacks.

Will update my review after a week or two to see how the tension maintenance and others aspects of the string change over time.

[UPDATE]

I have played few more days with the same setup and the more i play the more i start to like this String. My initial assessment of Spin is no longer true. If you want to generate spin this string has it.

The String bed is very consistent and i can hit the slices with more accuracy and there is good response on my ground strokes.

over all i am happy with this string.

the only thing i miss is i didn't try the full bed. With the slight elbow symptoms i am not trying the poly full beds.

Regular setup: Babolat Hurricane Pro Tour 16 or Signum Pro Tornado 17
Type: prototype B
String bed type: full
Tension: 57 lbs.
Racquet: Babolat Aero Pro Drive GT
Power level: Mid
Feel: The bed had a crispness to it but I might have needed to string it at low 50s to get the power to where I'm used it.
Tension maintenance: Played 4 sets on it and I haven't noticed a significant drop in tension over the norm.
Control: Control seems on par with my normal setup.
Spin: Although prototype B did have texture, I didn't notice an increase in spin.
Compare to the string you use most often
Tension recommendations: I would like to try the same set at 52-54 lbs.
General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes): This string felt very close to Luxilon Alu Big Banger 16 to me. The crispness and the feel was very close to it.

This was my first time trying out Solinco branded strings and had no expectations prior to hitting. After couple sets, it started reminding me of the said Luxilons and was not used to the subdued feel of the strings. I'm not cutting them out yet and will give it couple more weeks to see where the feel and tension will go and report on it if it's any different.

Were the same number of sets sent out for both play tests? I find it interesting that posts are 3 to 1 in favor of the A string so far.

Click to expand...

In my case I can tell you, I have lots of extra time to playtest this string since it is summer and I am on the court many more hours. I most cases, these playtests are done in the winter or late fall for some reason and my court time is limited. This one of the few times I can take my time and I intend to do so. So far.. I like the string. I am not seeing that much extra spin so far.

I am comparing the Playtest string B to tour bite 17g at 42/40 in my stock Head Microgel Radical MPs

Power= I really thought the power wasn't really an issue on my groundies. I especially liked the power on my OHBH. It is slightly less powerful than TB. On serves OTOH, was a bit more challenging to get that extra pop I had from TB.
Feel= Compared to TB, it was definitely softer. Honestly, that was the only thing I liked about the feel. It felt muted and "pingy" (didn't know what kind of word to describe it) unlike TB where it is crisp. I would saw off center hits was felt very much so. It really helped me try and hit the sweet spot since it was that noticeable to me.
Tension maintenance= I have compared the two strings for about 6 hrs and no major tension drop to report. (will update when I break the string or becomes unplayable)
Control= Was very similar to TB. I knew where it was going on pretty much every ball.
Spin= when I first felt it, I thought it was going to be super friendly like TB but it wasn't up there with Tb but it still gives good bite for a poly.
Tension recommendations= I thought I should've strung it a few #s up to hopefully get the crispness I would like.
General comments= Overall, I thought it was a pretty good string. I still prefer TB over it but if someone is looking for something similar to TB that is a softer, less power, and little less spin, then this is the string for you.

Whether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest: Full bed of prototype string.

Tension used for playtest: 45lb

Racquet brand and model used for test: Wilson Pro Staff Six.One 90

Power level of test string: Ample power for a poly. The power is easier to come by than with most polys, but still requires plenty of racquet head speed and good technique.

Feel: Very soft and comfortable, especially for a poly. It's not quite as plush as Big Hitter Black 7, but it's still very easy to hit with.

Tension maintenance: Tension held up well. I've hit with it for about 12 hours and although the feel has changed slightly, I haven't noticed any drop in playability.

Control: Being on the softer end of the poly spectrum, this string sacrifices some control. If anything, I feel this is the string's weakness, but it's a good trade.

Spin: Very impressive. The strings slide easily across each other and snap back into place after each hit. What the string lacks in control, it more than makes up for in spin production.

Compare to the string you use most often: I'd place this in direct competition with Big Hitter Black 7. Both are soft polys with great spin potential. The Solinco prototype is a little bit stiffer and lower-powered than BHB7. Otherwise, they perform nearly identically.

Tension recommendations: In the Pro Staff 90, I'd be tempted to drop a few more pounds, into the low 40's, but I didn't find anything particularly disappointing with my 45lb I starting point.

General comments: As others have mentioned, this string looks a lot like Tour Bite, which has impressed me in the past. Though I didn't compare them side-by-side, I think this prototype is softer than Tour Bite, which makes it a better fit for my gear and game (YMMV).

I found that the string really shined when I stood on the baseline taking big cuts and hitting heavy groundstrokes. Just like BHB7, the spin potential of this prototype gave me a lot of confidence to swing away, trusting that I'd get enough topspin to pull the ball back down into the court.

I'd put this among my favorite polys, right up there with BHB7, MSV Focus Hex, Genesis Typhoon, and Solinco Tour Bite (imagine that).

Thanks to Solinco and TW for the playtest. I've thoroughly enjoyed hitting with this one.

Your regular string set up- Luxillon Alu power rough, 57lbs
Confirm the prototype you received - A or B- B
Whether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest- full bed
If hybrid, list the other string used and whether it was in mains or crosses
Tension used for playtest-57 lbs.
Racquet brand and model used for test- Wilson prostaff six.one. 95
Power level of test string or hybrid- this string was a pretty low powered string which i liked because it really allowed me to take a good rip at the ball without really worrying wether it'll go in or out
Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?)At first the string bed was a little iffy and didnt get too much pop and feel, but about two hours into playing the string bed really came alive and feel better then it did when i first got it strung up. The ball really sinks into the string bed unlike my luxillon which is really stiff, the feedback was better than average for a poly which was also a plus.
Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?)-though there was a slight loss in tension when i first started playing, i actually prefered it lost a bit of tension but after that it settled in real nicely and i didnt notice anymore of the tension loss.
Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?)like i said before, the ball sank into the string bed allowing me to get more "meat" behind the ball. Since i am naturally a really hard hitter, if i even slowed down my stroke a bit it would come up short, so i had to be constantly ripping at the ball that way it would go where i wanted.
Spin- spin was pretty ok, nothing like my luxillon but still ok, i'd give it about a 7/10 for spin.
Compare to the string you use most often- much, much softer than luxillon which i liked, but i like the stiffnes of luxillon because it allows me to get more spin, and the luxillon has more power so dont dont have to be constantly hitting hard that way i dont have to worry about how deep it'll go.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?)- personally i would string it like 5 lbs lower that way i can get more power, i dont think this string would do particulatly good at higher tensions because of that low power.
General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes)- Not many major issues apart for the slight lack of power i got from it, but that also meant i could just hit tremendously hard at the ball w/out worrying about it going past the baseline. All in all, i was kind of impressed of this string. Everyone is saying it is a softer version of Tour bite, which in my eyes seems good, i think this string will do just fine. Thank You TW for the oppurtunity and keep up the good work Solinco!!!

Whether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest: Full bed

Tension used for playtest:55 lbs

Racquet brand and model used for test: Head Youtek Extreme Pro

Power level of test string or hybrid:
This was a medium powered string for me. The first time that I hit with the string, I thought the power level was fairly low. However, after a few hours of use I found that it had livened up. I actually enjoyed the string more after I had hit with it for a bit because it had a little bit more pop.

Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?
The string felt softer than some poly's, but I did not find it to be too soft. With that said, it did not feel harsh on my arm or shoulder. The string never seemed to have a real crisp feeling even when freshly strung. Also, off center hits did not feel great but I find that to be true with most poly's.

Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?)
I found the tension maintenance to be pretty good. There was an initial drop off after I hit with it for an hour or so, but after that tension felt fairly stable. The mains started to move around after several hours, but the string still played well. I also found the string to notch significantly less than my usual set up so I imagine the durability should be pretty good in a full bed.

Control (predictable trajectory?
Control seemed to be the standout feature for me.I was able to direct and place the ball very precisely with this string. I could also really swing out without fear of launching the ball. When playing with the wind where the ball can sometimes fly on me, I felt confident with this string.

Spin:
I thought the string offered good access to spin on my ground strokes and serve, but nothing out of this world. There are spinnier string out there, but this is still a good string for topspin.

Compare to the string you use most often:
I usually string with Kirschbaum Spiky Shark in a full bed. The string felt a little less stiff, but not by much. The power level on the Prototype string was lower than the Spiky Shark, but did offer more in terms of control. I also did not think the the test string gave me the same level of topspin as the Spiky Shark. Overall though, the string still did offer good access to spin. I think this string would be more durable than my current set up as it seemed more resistance to notching.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?)
I think that I strung around the right tension, but could have gone a little lower. However, if I would have strung lower that might have negated the control aspects of the string that I enjoyed.

General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes): I think this would be a nice string for me during the indoor winter season, but I like my string to have a little more power in the summer to be able to hit through the wind and conditions. I thought the control offered by the prototype string was excellent and it would definitively work well to add control to a lively frame. I would have liked the string to feel a little bit more crisp when freshly strung, but I also enjoyed that it didn't seem to stress my arm or shoulder. Overall, I enjoyed the string and there is definitively a segment of players that it would benefit from it.

Tennis Warehouse and Solinco- Thanks for giving me the opportunity to test this string! I really enjoyed it! Solinco makes some great polyester based strings and I think the prototype string would make a great addition to their polyester offerings.

Whether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest Full set

If hybrid, list the other string used and whether it was in mains or crosses N/A

Tension used for playtest 52 pounds (constant pull)

Racquet brand and model used for test Yonex RDiS 100 midplus

Power level of test string or hybrid This string had slightly above average power for a poly, but would be low powered coming from a different type of string.

Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?) I would describe this as soft but not mushy. It still had very good feel, but the softness made sure that my elbow wasn't sore. Off center hits weren't anything special. I knew when I had hit off center and the shock was comparable to other polys.

Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?) This string held tension fairly well. However, after about 10 hours I had to adjust my stroke to keep the ball in.

Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?) The control of this string was good. Directional control was there and depth control came to me after time. The string is predictable, but it produces less spin than Tour bite so I had to get used to the depth control.

Spin Definitively a little less than Tour Bite, but still decent spin for a poly and more than most other strings.

Compare to the string you use most often Power was about the same as Tour Bite, but depth was slightly more due to less spin. In the end I adjusted my strokes and the result was about the same. Control was just as good as Tour Bite, and the result of my shots were about the same. However this string would probably take it for me due to its softness. Occasionally after using Tour Bite my elbow is sore, so I will probably have to hybrid it soon. I would rather use this full bet than Tour Bite hybrid.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?) 52 pounds seemed about right. I would string again at the same tension.

General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes) I really enjoyed this playtest. If/When this string is released I will seriously consider switching to it. The positive is mainly softness, and negative spin, comparing to Tour Bite. I've now kept this string in for about 15 hours, and unlike other polys it hasn't become noticeably stiff. However it has become very difficult to control and I will be cutting it out.

Whether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest: Full bed

Tension used for playtest: 52 lbs

Racquet brand and model used for test: Dunlop AG 4D 200 Tour

Power level of test string or hybrid: Good power but not overwhelming

Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?): I usually use multis and rarely use poly, so I was not expecting it to be as soft as biphase but was surprised how soft it was. No arm or shoulder pain either. It also had some crispness to it as well.

Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?): So far no major tension drops (after initial drop) that makes it unplayable after about 10 hours of play.

Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): Control was average, not great and not bad. I felt that I have more control with my usual string set up.

Spin: I did notice a little more spin on my groundstrokes than with biphase but that was expected since it’s a poly but no excessive spin (which I was expecting since it appears to be shaped)

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?): I would like to try this string at a higher tension to see if the control can be improved without compromising the power.

Whether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest
If hybrid, list the other string used and whether it was in mains or crosses
Tension used for playtest
Hybrid, with the Solinco in the mains and OG Sheep Micro in the crosses, both at 55 pounds, same as my regular setup, substituting the Solinco B for my usual Cyber Flash.

Racquet brand and model used for test
Prince Warrior OS

Power level of test string or hybrid
Good controlled power for a poly. Very comparable to my usual Cyber Flash. It has enough oomph to get the ball deep without sailing it long, but like most polys, this is relative. You still need to have a fast swing to get the most out of this string. Perhaps a bit less pop on first serves than CF, but not too shabby.

Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?)
A bit softer feel than Cyber Flash, but still a bit more crisp than a most of the newer spin oriented polys. Close enough to CF that it wasn’t a distraction for me, and I tend to like crisp strings. The softer feel was a bit more comfortable and easier on the arm on mishits than CF (but still a lot stiffer than, say, multifilament strings).

Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?)
Better than most polys. I played five matches and an hour practice session against a wall before giving up on it, about 12 hours of hitting. The string was moving around a bit at the end, but not terrible. Might get another match out of it, but at this point it becomes my backup/practice racquet.

Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?)Good control. I could hit out with confidence and keep the shots in, or take the speed off the ball for drop shpts with reliability. I am not much of a net-player, but my few volleys felt OK for a poly. Maybe a hair less precise then Cyber Flash, but a bit more comfortable and easier on the arm.

Spin
A bit disappointing here. With a shaped string, I hope to get a lot more spin than with Cyber Flash, but the difference was only slight. Maybe it’s me – I also use Big Hitter Silver Rough occasionally, and again, the difference in spin from plain old CF is just marginally better for me.

Compare to the string you use most often
Cyber Flash and this Solinco B have similar power, with maybe a nod to CF on first serves. The Solinco is crisp but perhaps a little softer in feel than CF. I could see switching to the Solinco if I thought my tennis elbow was flaring up again. The Solinco has a slight edge in spin, but not by much. Tension maintenance was similar to CF. This could be a good alternative to CF for me if the price were right. While testing, I did switch off a couple of times between Cyber Flash and this string, and did not feel an overwhelming urge to return to the Cyber Flash – that’s practically a rave from me, compared to some other playtests.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?)
I tested it at 55 pounds, and that seems right for me. It’s been really hot these weeks while I playtested, so I’d probably drop it to 50 pounds during the winter months.

General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes)Likes: mostly crisp feel, but not jarring. Good power, access to spin, and decent (for a poly) tension maintenance. Strung up reasonably easy. Something I noticed while trying to cut the string at a sharp angle to produce a sharp point – the string wanted to flatten out under my clippers instead of producing a sharp point, and the ridges on the string flattened out a bit where it was clamped while stringing. Neither of those were big issues, though. I didn’t have any major dislikes, so this was one of the better playtests I’ve been involved with.

I strung up at 57# on a constant pull machine with a 4 knot string job.

My regular string set up -

I'm a poly user, and have been for years now. My current string of choice at the moment is Babolat Pro Hurricaine Tour, but have been a long time user of Volkl Cyclone, Solince tour bite, and barbed wire.

Racquet brand and model used for test -

For this Playtest I strung the test string in my Babolat Pure Drive Plus "swirly". 16x19 pattern with a 1/4 grip. Racquet is in stock form.

Power level of test string -

The test string reminded me of tour bite. It had very good power, and quite a lively string bed. Serves had the usual pop that I expected from the tour bite string. To be honest it felt the same as tour bite.

Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?) -

Fell wise, the test string had a crisp feeling especially with touch shots. I had great response controlling the ball with these type of shots as the string hade some great feedback on drop shots. The racquet did not feel muted at all with the strings.

Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?) -

Tension wise, great!!! It is still in the racquet and I am seeing how long before I feel the strings become unplayable. The strings dropped a few pounds, as with all polys initially, but have not seen much drop since. The strings are still playing strong as I have been playing four times a week.

Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?) -

Control has been excellent. I feel the response and feeling the strings had made it very predictable for me to place my shots. Although the racquet contributes to this quality, I believe the strings gave it a bit more. I feel the strings allowed for better control without having a boards type feel.

Compare to the string you use most often - comparing it to the pro hurricane tour, I feel the SOLINCO was a better fit overall. I believe it was a bit less powered that the tour string, but provides an easier time with touch shots. I think it was a better fit for the stiff babolat racquet I use.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?) -

After hitting with it in my racquet, I.might try it at a higher tension with this frame, possible at 60 #, but it played very well at my usual tension of 57

General comments -

Overall, an excellent play test. I have always been a fan of solinco strings, especially in the stiff framed racquets. Im not convinced this string is any different from tur bite though. Only time will tell. Will I change?? Maybe.... the string reinforced to me why I love the SOLINCO string so much. If they do come out with a new off shoot to this, I will give it a try. If these are tour bite , with a twist, I would definitely buy a set to try again.

Your regular string set up: Mamba Premium Gut Mains/Pacific Poly Force Crosses at 56 lbs or Luxilon ALU at 52lbsConfirm the prototype you received: BWhether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest: Full setTension used for playtest: 57 lbs.Racquet brand and model used for test: Babolat Pure Drive Standard (Stock)Power level of test string or hybrid: This string is on the medium-high level of power for a poly. I found it to offer very predictable pop without any springy sensation that is often found in the softer co-polys. It is not quite as powerful as ALU Power. It probably sits somewhere between the RPM Blast/Hurricane Tour/Hurricane and ALU. Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?): This string is remarkably comfortable at 57lbs. My trend has been to string full poly at or around 52 lbs for years now. I kept my strining machine at 57 just because I have started playing much more on hard courts lately. I definitely would consider this string crisp but not harsh. I tend to strike the ball very cleanly in terms of being centered on the main strings; however, I do tend to make contact slightly higher than the center in terms of the cross strings (toward the tip of the frame). I found that the strings responded well at my usual point of impact (which is still within the sweet spot but at the upper 1/3 of it for sure). Some strings get pingy around there, but this one felt great.Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?): I'm going on approximately 12 hours with this string and it has maintained tension quite well. I typically feel like most polys would have lost a significant amount of tension by now...especially all of the Luxilon strings. I am very happy with where they have settled in and have no desire to cut them out. I will definitely be able to play with these until they break.Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): I find the control with these strings on par with the spin monster ALU power and superior to every other string on the market that I have tried. The string has an interesting texture that I'm not sure I know how to describe. It grips the ball very well and gives one excellent spin control which is the area that I use to gain control. I have no difficulty varying depth and find the string provides excellent control on intentionally short slices and drop volleys. I also found great directional control on serves. Spin: I found this string to be the best string I've ever used in terms of spin. I am kicking serves higher than I ever have before and actually just played a former ranked D1 player who said he didn't see a serve that kicked that high in college. I've always had a big kick serve, but I believe this string adds a little bit to it due to the control I have directionally. Compare to the string you use most often: Compared to most full polys, I found this string surprisingly comfortable. It's not as comfortable as a gut/poly hybrid but has more control and better spin. I am 100% considering switching over to this string if it's at a reasonable price point. I'm a bit disappointed in the majority of string manufacturers jacking up the prices of poly. Luxilon had my business at $13.75 years ago when it first came out, but now that it's up to $17 a set, I will never go back to using it exclusively. This string performs equally well, and if it comes in at a competitive price point (especially in reels), I will switch to it.Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?): I think it is always difficult to recommend a tension different from your regular setup when trying a new string. I believe in changing one thing at a time and would therefore recommend sticking with your normal tension. On hard courts with a truer bounce and quicker pace, I am happy I went up a few pounds. That change, however, was due to surface and not string type.General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes): I think this string is an excellent control string that provides superior access to spin and above average power for a poly. I have absolutely zero dislikes for this string...the only possible downside to it will be price point. I hope Solinco makes this string a reasonable alternative to the more expensive polys even though it performs equally as well and even better in some categories (maybe I am asking for too much). If they do, this string may very well corner the market.

Thanks Tennis Warehouse for allowing me to take part in this playtest. Your loyalty to your customers will keep me coming back as long as I am playing tennis. Also, thanks to Solinco for sponsoring a playtest through TW that allows us non-professionals a chance to try new products.

Your regular string set up BABOLAT EXCEL 58LBS, OR RPM AT 52LB.
Confirm the prototype you received - A or B B
Whether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest FULL SET

If hybrid, list the other string used and whether it was in mains or crosses NA

Tension used for playtest STRUNG AT 52LBS

Racquet brand and model used for test BABOLAT PURE DRIVE GT

Power level of test string or hybrid ON A SCALE OF 1/10 I WOULD GIVE IT A 4 RATING AT AVERAGE TO LOWER POWER FOR POLYS I HAVE PLAYED.

Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?) I GIVE IT A SLIGHTLY MUTED FEELING AND THE CENTER OF THE RACKET WAS GOLD AND THE OFF CENTER WAS SLIGLY PUNISHING COMPARED TO A MULTI BUT NOT TO BAD FOR A POLY

Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?) TENSION HELD PRETTY GOOD AVERAGE LOSS AFTER 24 HRS AND AFTER A FEW DAYS HITTING LOSS ABOUT 7% ON RACQUET TUNE. TENSION ACTUALLY FELT BETTER THE LONGER I HIT WITH IT. I DOUBT I WILL CUT THESE OUT ANYTIME SOON COMPARED TO SOME POLYS THAT GO DEAD AFTER A WEEK. DURABILITY LOOKS GOOD

Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?) I AM 4.5 PLAYER WITH AVERAGE ALL AROUND PLAY NOT A BIG HITTER AT ALL EXCEPT FOR MY SERVE IS BIG. I REALLY ENJOYED SWINGING AS HARD AS I WANTED AND I HAD TO WORK VERY HARD TO HIT THE BALL LONG. I WAS REALLY ABLE TO RELAX AND SWING AWAY WITH CONFIDENCE MAKING THE CONTROL HIGH GIVING IT A 8/10

Spin AVERAGE NOT QUITE AS MUCH AS RPM BUT STILL PRETTY GOOD 7/10 ON SPIN

Compare to the string you use most often COMPARED TO RPM I FELT IT WON OUT IN THE CONTROL DEPARTMENT BUT LACKED SLIGHTLY IN THE POWER AND FEEL. AND TO A MULTI LIKE EXCEL IT WONS HANDS DOWN BUT YOU CANT REALLY COMPARE A MULTI TO A POLY.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?) I REALLY EJOYED THE STRING AND I WOULD STAY AT 52

General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes) OVERALL RATING 7 OUT OF 10 FOR ME GREAT STRING FOR BLASTING AWAY AT THE BASELINE AND PLASTERING THE CORNERS. I AM A LITTLE OLDER AND I LIKE A LITTLE MORE POWER OUT OF MY STRINGS SO I DONT HAVE TO WORK AS HARD. I THINK THIS WILL BE POPULAR WITH THE YOUNGER KIDS AND ADULTS WHO SWING REALLY BIG. PRICE POINT IS GOING TO BE THE BIG FACTOR ON HOW POPULAR.

I have been testing two frames with a hybrid of this string B (mains) and Head PPS 16 (crosses) in match play, drilling and practice sessions. I also used these frames to feedballs to students. The total playtest window was 4 weeks for both frames. I alternated frames to get appox. 30 hours of total test time.

The frame strung up with very little problem. The sides are quite sharp and one needs to be careful when stringing not to hurt their fingers. Mine were a bit sore after stringing. Knots no problems to tie. String was middle of the road for stiffness while stringing. With my drop weight stringer, I needed only a bit of adjustment to obtain the proper setting. The string settled nicely. No extra stringing time over my normal setup.

During the 1st hour or so the string played a bit on the stiff side bit then really broke in and the true playing attributes of the string were discovered. The string played very honest. Power level was medium in my testing cycle. Easy to create power and pace. Sweetpot was ample and no hotspots encountered. Very impressed with the consistant response of this set-up. I really enjoyed the feel of this string. Could employ touch when needed and still bash balls from the baseline. Since my game is really all court this string was almost perfect for my game. Comfort was outstanding. No arm issues to be reported. Even off center hits did not cause any issues. When the string not not play stiff, I would say more on the crisp side.

Tension maintenance was above average for a 2nd or 3rd gen poly hybrid set-up. It was better than my Tourna BHS set-up but not quite as good as Tourna Big Hitter Black 7. The set-up became unplayable about the 15 hour mark but the fall in tension was very linear as was the BHB7. This string seemed to me to be someplace in the middle of a control and power range. I enjoy playing poly in the middle to low 50s and tend to like the additional power a poly can provide at lower tension. Spin was very easy to generate and I would estimate that I was producing about 15 to 20 % more spin with this string over my Tourna BHS hybrid set-up. Kick and topspin serves really increased hop with this set-up.

Great control was seen both off the ground and with serves when spin was employed. Slices were a wonderful thing to see as as topspin. Control was not quite as good with flater strokes as you might have guessed, but why would one used this string if not to produce spin.

When compared to the string you use most often (Touna Big Hitter Silver), I would say it is an improvement in power and spin production. I would also give comfort to the Test String B as well as feel. Control going to BH Silver. If I had to compare this string to one I have recent experience with it would be Tourna Big Hitter Black 7. Tourna Big Hitter Black 7 has the edge over test String B in control and tension maintenance while I feel Test String B excels in feel, touch and comfort. Both string produce great spin, but in a different way. Tourna Big Hitter Black 7 produces a tighter forward driving spin that seems to create a heavier ball, while the extra hop goes to Test String B.

As far as tension recommendations go, I might want to test this string at 57 or so to see if I could obtain a bit more control without giving up too much power and the great feel this stringbed provides.

Overall, I loved this string for all the reason stated above. I think they have a winner here and hope this string makes it to market under $10.00. If it was priced like Tourna Big Hitter Black 7 it would be a oustanding price/performer in my book. I would stock it and play it...to be sure. I saw no downsides with this offering. Again, very honest playing string with just a bit of help in the power and spin arena...

First of all, thanks to Solinco and Tennis Warehouse for continuing to provide these opportunities to explore (potential) new products.

My test play was the Solinco B prototype string
Strung as a full set, two piece job, in a Dunlop Aerogel 200 Tour at 50 pounds in both the mains and the crosses on a lockout machine.

I played two sets on each of three different days over the course of one week with this set of strings. Played outdoors but the weather was fairly mild. Dry, low 70 ish. By the end of the first two sets, it felt like the tension had dropped some. At that time, the loss of power and loss of feel that comes with dead strings was not significant enough to require a re-stringing at that time. By the end of the sixth set, the strings certainly felt older but were still practice playable. I would definitely have put in fresh strings if I had a tournament or a competitive match to play.

Power level – The power of the test string is about average, to a little below average when compared to other polys. It had pretty decent spin and I had similar action on my kick serve and continuing to give each of my opponents fits. Solid control on ground strokes was expected with the lower power string and tension.

The test string definitely felt more stiff but not to the point of being uncomfortable. The power level and, or spin might be positively affected by a tension adjustment. I needed, and was able to swing big with is string at 50.

This particular racket is fairly flexible and helps provide dampening with the more stiff strings so it worked well with the string. I would recommend trying a lower than usual tension for this string.

Comparing this string to my most recently regular string, Dunlop Black Widow 17 - The test string had a little less power than Black Widow. The spin effect also felt a bit diminished in comparison. That could have been to needing to change tension. The strings did not feel cheap at all, just a little different from what I am used to.

If hybrid, list the other string used and whether it was in mains or crosses: Prototype B in mains at 58 lbs & Head FXP 16g in crosses at 61 lbs

Racquet brand and model used for test: Head Flexpoint Radical Oversized

Power level of test string or hybrid: Medium. I did not feel that the string added more power to my shots in comparison to my usual set up.

Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?): The feel was a little stiffer than my usual set up, but are softer than some of the polys that I have tried, such as the Prince Beast XP 16g.

Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?): I have played with it for a couple of hours and I haven’t noticed any loss in tension. I think that it maintains its tension much better than other strings I’ve tried out.

Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?): I thought that the control with this string was pretty good. I was able to control the depth and direction of my ground strokes and volleys well with this string. I also enjoyed the added control on my serves too.

Spin: I enjoyed the amount of spin I got from this string setup. I am a relatively flat hitter and am looking for strings that will help me get my shots in the court, which this string did.

Compare to the string you use most often: This string is a large improvement in the spin and control categories when compared to my usual set up, which helped my consistency considerably. I did not notice any extra power in my shots with this new string. While stiffer than my usual setup, the string was not as hard on my arm as other polys.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?): I am happy with the tension that I chose.

General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes): I enjoyed this string and playtest. I am currently looking for a new string set up to help me improve my game further, especially in consistency. I think this string is a good candidate to switch to. Hopefully the price of the string will not break the bank.

I played eight sessions at about two hours per session except for the seventh session. That session was just warm up plus one set for a total of about 45 minutes during an indoor match. Total playtest time was about 15 hours.

Confirm the prototype you received - A or B
I received Solinco prototype B.

Whether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest
If hybrid, list the other string used and whether it was in mains or crosses
Tension used for playtest
I played a hybrid for the playtest and strung on a Klippermate dropweight with no issues.
Mains: Solinco prototype B at 48 lbs
Crosses: Wilson Synthetic Gut Extreme 17 at 50 lbs.

Racquet brand and model used for test
Yonex RDiS 100 Midplus

Power level of test string or hybrid
It felt low powered to me, I had to really take big cuts on sitters to really feel like I could hit winners past people. Flat serves didn't have much pop for me either. When I took these big cuts though, string was comfortable.

Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?)
These strings really changed in feel with the temperature/conditions. They only felt crisp during the first two hours of hitting which was after I strung them up the day before. After that, they felt mushy especially when I played during the day in warmer weather or indoors. At night in low 60 degree weather, they didn't feel as mushy so I definitely preferred hitting with it then. Off center feedback was a non-issue for me, I clearly didn't hit good shots when that happened but it didn't hurt my arm at all.

Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?)
I strung them up on a Friday and then played the next day and they felt fine. Two days later, on Sunday, they already felt different and too much on the mushy side. They're not unplayable but by the third session, the strings were moving around and I was already losing control.

Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?)
As I mentioned in the "feel" section above, the temperature/conditions really changed the string. I don't have a power baseliner game as I always play doubles so I chip and charge a lot. I mainly use slice serves for both first and second serves instead of the standard flat/kick serve. I hit forehand slices 75% of the time on that side but backhand side is a mixture of topspin and flat shots but usually at a rally pace to try and place the ball deep so I can work my way up to the net. When playing at night in low 60 degree weather, I had very good control on my forehand slices and could keep them low over the net and place the ball usually where I wanted. The same could be said for my backhand and serves. They went where I wanted them to go.

When it was hot out or I played indoors in humid conditions, I felt like I lost complete control of the ball. Serves kept going long and slices would float up. I only played one set with these strings indoors during the seventh session because I had lost seven straight games in that match! Bageled in the first set and then lost my serve in the first game of the second set. Was it me or the string? Only one way to find out, I switched to my regular setup and immediately had the control I'm used to and broke right back. We ended up losing the set and the match in a second set tiebreaker. Final score: 6-0, 7-6 (7). That was the only time I used it in a match and only because the result of the match didn't affect the standings. I still wanted to win though (and not get double bageled!) so had to go back to my regular setup.

Spin
This is the first time I ever tried a shaped string and I didn't feel like I got any extra spin from the square shape. That's not a bad thing, just not better or worse than I'm usedto. My game is based on spin and my shots felt like they were biting like normal provided it was not hot conditions when control went out the window. I went into this thinking there would be more spin so personally, I'm thinking shaped string is more of a gimmick or all in one's head. That's just an opinion though based on this one experience.

Compare to the string you use most often
Ever since I started playing tennis in high school in 1997, I've used a full bed of Wilson Synthetic Gut Extreme. I only started using SPPP/Wilson Synthetic Gut Extreme hybrid setups towards the end of 2011 which is definitely my go to setup as I bought reels of both. I literally have no other experience with a full bed of poly or any other poly besides SPPP. I have no issues with control regardless of the temperature/conditions with SPPP. The crisp feel for the Solinco prototype was gone after one session while SPPP feels great for about 15 hours and doesn't move around as much either.

Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?)
Since I have another half set left, I definitely want to try it at a higher tension so I can see if I can get better control in the hot conditions. Next time, I'm going to try 53 lbs as opposed to 48 lbs.

General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes)
These strings definitely felt soft to me so I did like the comfort when taking huge cuts at the ball such as on second serve returns. Unfortunately, my game is not based on power but rather spin and placement so the varying control would force me to use a different setup just for warmer days. I also didn't like the strings moving by the third session since I always straighten them out between points. Overall, it was a decent string but I wouldn't switch from SPPP for these. I know finding the right tension is key though so I hope the other half set works out at the higher tension for me.

Thanks again Solinco and TW for my first ever string playtest!

I will report back at a later time if it is better at the higher tension whenever I decide to string the other half set.

My regular string set up = Big Hitter Silver 17g
Prototype received = B
Strung with full set
Tension used for playtest = 50 lbs
Racquet brand and model used for test = Head Flexpoint Prestige MP
Power level of test string or hybrid = Low powered. I felt depth suffered a little due to the increased spin.
Feel = String felt muted and control oriented. Was missing that "touch" factor. Neither overly stiff nor overly soft, just missing some feedback with the muted feel. Off center feedback was rough.
Tension maintenance = Good. Tension held well for 9 hours of play.
Control = Very good. The trajectory was a bit more unpredictable, maybe due to the rough cut of the string. Responded well to bigger cuts but touch shots were a toss up.

Spin = Spin was good, a bit more than normal shaped Big Hitter Sliver, about the same as some other rough shaped strings I've tried.

Tension recommendations = I might string it a little lower, 47lbs, to get more power, but because its missing the feedback I look for I probably wouldn't string it again.

Sorry for the late review. I completely loose track of time during the summer. As for the string...

You must include the following in your review.

Your regular string set up
Solinco tour bite full bed 1.2 @ 40lb

Confirm the prototype you received - A or B. B

Whether or not you used a full set or hybrid for the playtest
If hybrid, list the other string used and whether it was in mains or crosses
Full bed at 41

Tension used for playtest
41

Racquet brand and model used for test
Pure storm ltd gt

Power level of test string or hybrid
The power level wasn't necessarily high but my shot were landing deeper than normal( good or bad) without changing my stroke. In that regard it is more powerful than my standard tour bite. 8/10

Feel (crisp? mushy? soft? stiff? off center feedback?)
I though the feel was firm, not stiff and not nessecarlily crisp. For a poly it is on the softer side. Definitely more "comfy" than my standard set up.

Tension maintenance (how long before it became too loose or unplayable?)
Tension maintance was standard for a poly, nothing amazing nor awful. 6/10

Control (predictable trajectory? performance on different strokes and swing speeds?) Great control I thought. It was a little more wild than my standard tour bite due to the higher power level but still easy control with all that spin. 8/10

Spin
Spin was high as I expected with this string. Love the bite. 9/10

Compare to the string you use most often
I thought it was just a more powerful and slightly softer string than your bite in my opinion.
Tension recommendations (after hitting it, would you recommend a different tension?) Mabye a pound tighter? But nothing extreme.

General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes)
Great string, something I might want to use if I started developing arm problems but as of right now I'm dialed in with tour bite power wise.

Like a dummy I sent an email in with review without thinking I should have posted it here Sorry for the delay..

My regular string set up = X-1 BiPhase Red 52 lbs

Prototype received = A

Strung with full set
Tension used for playtest = 47 lbs

Racquet brand and model used for test = Pacific Vacuum 90

Power level of test string or hybrid = Low powered. Much less than what I'm used to with X-1, but wasn't as underpowered as I thought going in.

Feel = No fault of the string I don't think, but such a stiff Poly just doesn't do the frame I threw it in justice.. Pretty Jarring, but may could fix that with looser setup?

Tension maintenance = Spot on, didn't feel any change as I hit.

Control = Very Good. The spin definitely helped to keep the ball between the lines.. Didn't loose any of the laserlike accuracy of the frame..

Spin = Great Spin, Felt like this string had a little more bite than my last go round with Similar products from Tourna and Lux.. Would definitely think about using this string with a larger head more powerful racquet.

Tension recommendations = Definitely would lower the tension in my frame the next go round.. Maybe even low 40's..

Compare to the string you use most often:
Well, I use a very soft powerful multi, so it was apples and oranges.. I am used to buttery feel and soft, this was much stiffer and spin friendly.. Definitely not a bad thing, just not my ideal setup in my current frame.

General comments (please summarize likes and dislikes):
Overall I felt it to be a very quality hi-end poly.. Probably in a more powerful frame, this string would shine.. Can't imagine what it would feel like in a XFast 100 or Pure Drive.. Probably be a dream spin machine